U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) has asked the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to help Texas officials investigate and potentially hold accountable state legislators who left Texas in an effort to block legislative proceedings. In a letter addressed to FBI Director Kash Patel, Cornyn urged federal cooperation with Governor Greg Abbott and state law enforcement.
“As a maneuver to avoid legislative responsibilities, on August 3, 2025, many members in the Texas House of Representatives absconded from the state. Their stated goal was to prevent the legislature from properly meeting, in violation of their oath of office,” wrote Sen. Cornyn.
Cornyn’s letter expressed concern about out-of-state actors making public statements regarding protection for the absent lawmakers and called for federal resources to help locate them. He noted that some legislators have traveled as far as New York and Illinois.
“Out-of-state actors have made public comments about protecting the Texas legislators who are currently hiding out of state from any accountability for their actions. I request the FBI’s assistance, as federal resources are necessary to locate the out-of-state Texas legislators who are potentially acting in violation of the law. The FBI has tools to aid state law enforcement when parties cross state lines, including to avoid testifying or fleeing a scene of a crime. Specifically, I am concerned that legislators who solicited or accepted funds to aid in their efforts to avoid their legislative duties may be guilty of bribery or other public corruption offenses,” he continued.
Cornyn emphasized that this issue is urgent due to an ongoing special session called by Governor Abbott, which he said is being hindered by a lack of quorum caused by lawmakers’ absence. He referenced recent flooding in Kerrville as one example of pressing issues requiring legislative action.
“Governor Abbott and Texas state law enforcement officers are doing what they can within the confines of the law, but federal help may be necessary. These legislators have committed potential criminal acts in their rush to avoid their constitutional responsibilities and must be fully investigated and held accountable. I urge you to work with Texas public officials to provide them the support they need,” he concluded.
Senator Cornyn has served multiple terms representing Texas in the U.S. Senate, having won elections against MJ Hegar in 2020 (53.5%–43.9%), David Alameel in 2014 (61.6%–34.3%), Rick Noriega in 2008 (54.8%–42.8%), and Ron Kirk in 2002 (55%–43%).
